What to Plant at the End of Summer in Indiana

As the end of summer draws near, it's time to start thinking about planting autumn and winter crops. Fortunately, Indiana's climate is ideal for growing a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs during these seasons. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best options for end-of-summer planting in Indiana.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a versatile and delicious choice for fall planting in Indiana. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, from cherry tomatoes to beefsteak varieties. Fall-planted tomatoes will ripen on the vine throughout the autumn, giving you tasty fresh produce well into the colder months. Be sure to plant them in a sunny spot with well-draining soil, and fertilize regularly to encourage healthy growth.

Radishes

Radishes are a fast-growing root vegetable that can be harvested in just 3-4 weeks. They're an excellent choice for fall planting because they thrive in cool weather. Radishes come in a variety of colors and shapes, from round and red to long and white. They're also packed with nutrients, including vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Plant radish seeds in shallow furrows about 1/2 inch deep, and keep the soil moist throughout the growing season.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a cool weather crop that can be planted in Indiana in the late summer for a fall harvest. It's packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, and fiber. Broccoli requires well-draining soil and regular watering to thrive. It's also important to keep an eye out for pests like cabbage worms and aphids, which can damage the plants. Plant broccoli seeds or seedlings in full sun or partial shade, and give them plenty of room to grow.

Beets

Beets are a colorful and nutritious root vegetable that can be planted in the late summer for a fall harvest. They come in a variety of colors, from deep red to golden yellow, and are packed with vitamins and minerals, including folate, potassium, and iron. Beets prefer cool, moist soil and full sun to partial shade. They should be planted about one inch deep and two inches apart, and kept well-watered to encourage healthy growth.

Kale

Kale is a hardy green that can be planted in the late summer or early fall for a bountiful harvest. It's packed with nutrients, including vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron. Kale is also an excellent source of antioxidants, which are believed to help prevent cancer and other diseases. Kale grows best in cool weather and prefers full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in well-draining soil and kept well-watered throughout the growing season.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of options for end-of-summer planting in Indiana. Whether you prefer root vegetables, leafy greens, or juicy tomatoes, you're sure to find something that fits your taste and gardening skills. Just remember to choose the right location, soil, and watering schedule for your plants, and enjoy the fruits of your labor throughout the fall and winter months.